Yes, Germany was a mess.  The only thing good that came out of it was the outright ownership of the Separion Ceramic separator. 

Yes basically still family owned; however, recently they spun off the labratory to it's own division.  That makes me think that the split is a precursor to a sell off or merger of part of the company.  I think a joint venture will be formed and the family will remain owning the lab.  The joint venture will manufacture battery cells and battery modules.  I have LAC picked as the joint venture partner supplying the lithium.  I have the Federal Govt. pegged as to providing the construction capital from the big money give away they are trying to get passed.  If you are going to dream, dream BIG!

Thacker Pass is a given.  They are just jumping thru all the hoops.  First of the year things should be cleared up a bit.  JMHO